Daley Backs Call For Indigenous World Cup Side

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Australian great and Indigenous All Stars coach Laurie Daley says he supports the idea of an Indigenous side competing in future Rugby League World Cup tournaments provided it doesn't divide the current setup.

Daley, who was at the launch of the 2018 Festival of Indigenous Rugby League at Redfern Oval on Thursday, will take charge of the First Nation Goannas as part of the February 10 triple header.

When asked whether an Australian Indigenous side could become a World Cup reality, the former NSW Blues mentor believes players could be eligible for the team if not selected for the Kangaroos.

"It's something that has been spoken about," Daley said.

"You don't want to create divisions in terms of representing Australia at the highest level and having the Indigenous team.

"But, maybe if you have a selection of everyone all-in for the Australian team, and then the people who haven't been selected, if the numbers are there to make up the Indigenous All Stars side, then why not?

"We've seen the interest that [Jason] Taumalolo and [Andrew] Fifita have created by pledging their allegiance to Tonga. But having said that as Australians we are all one. We need to be mindful of that."